Is it truly possible to have a non-biased media?

My own view is that it isn't possible to be unbiased but some sources have higher journalistic standards and integrity. All media and all language carries values and assumptions within it, often unacknowledged and sometimes at a subconscious level. However, not all media is the same. Some tell outright lies and some insinuate things which the readership are intended to take as fact. If I don't trust a source then I read through to find the quotes and the verified details.

I have confirmation bias too and everyone does, though I think it is a healthy thing if you can be critical of friends and allies from time to time.

This page is a permanent link to the reply below and its nested replies. See all post replies »

CopperCicada · M

I would agree that there are huge differences regarding media's intellectual rigor and veracity of truth claims.

I would also agree that all media has ideological biases and that not all are the same as some are intentionally deceptive and manipulative.

I would also agree that all media would have confirmation and story bias.

And I would also agree that forraging across media food groups is a good way around that.

That said...

I think modern media, in particular TV, radio, and internet media are inherently toxic.

These short format forms of media require click-bait to get people to interact with content to generate revenue. So we are constantly triggered, primarily by anger, fear, and outrage, and remain in a state of emotional excitation.

This also uncalibrates our sense of risk and priorty. Media click-bait is unlikely to be something relevant in terms of real daily risks. Also low in terms of actual priority in our lives.

And the requirement to generate click-bait for revenue generation demands very hard forms of confirmation bias. Not only are alterative views not possible, but presentation, formatting, tone must be uniform. And the short format makes any real discussion of issues impossible. So we are subject to extreme story bias. Things need to have a ribbon around them.

When I unplug from short format click-bait and jump back in it's really jarring and clear how it scrambles my brains.